11.05.2024 – Volume 2, Issue 49

ELECTION

Housing Coalition launches MBTA pledge drive

Group responds to conflict of interest charges

BY WILL DOWD

Armed with blue pledge cards declaring “I will support the MBTA Communities Act,” the Marblehead Housing Coalition launched a signature campaign Monday night at Abbot Public Library, seeking to build momentum for multifamily zoning.

“We are trying to get support so that whenever the next instance is, at the ballot box or town meeting, we can have 1,000 people or more pledged to support efforts to rezone areas of Marblehead,” said Pierce Law, a coalition member and Marblehead resident.

Conflict of interest?

Some opponents of the 3A zoning law have raised conflictof-interest concerns involving Housing Coalition members.

» A Q&A with Sen. Brendan Crighton, who represents Marblehead and helped write the MBTA Communities Act, on Page 7.

On social media, critics point to the fact that coalition founder, Trevor Moore, is the son of local developer Ted Moore and is a project manager at his father’s company. Ted Moore owns three properties in one of the proposed 3A multifamily housing districts, on Tioga Way.

Ted Moore also bought land at 935 Haverhill St. in Rowley, located in a proposed 3A district, but Rowley Town Manager Curt Baker told the Current that Town Meeting voters rejected that proposal earlier in the year.

Trevor Moore denied that he has any financial motivations for supporting 3A.

“I think everyone in Marblehead will benefit from the passage of 3A. Will I benefit personally, financially, more than others? I honestly don’t know.

‘Whoever has the most money wins’

Resident promotes amendment to limit political fundraising

BY LEIGH BLANDER

The totals haven’t been tallied yet, but the 2024 presidential election was expected to be the costliest ever, with at least $15.9 billion in spending, according to political finance data site, Open Secrets. Outside groups, largely political action committees, have spent roughly $2.6 billion on 2024 federal elections, outpacing spending in any previous cycle.

“If you watch our elections and the amount of money that’s been going into them, it just keeps going up and up,” said Leila Blodgett of Marblehead. “What was our democracy and ‘everybody’s voice counts’ doesn’t exist anymore. Whoever has the most money wins.”

Blodgett is fed up watching billions of dollars pour into America’s political system. She joined the board of directors at American Promise, a nonprofit that is promoting the For Our Freedom Constitutional amendment to allow “reasonable limits on political spending, ensuring every American voice counts.”

Blodgett says Supreme Court decisions, including Citizens United, have opened the floodgates to “the development of super PACs and foreign money and dark money” that influence elections. Just 1% of donors contributed 93% of super PAC donations in recent election cycles, according to American Promise,

“Imagine if this keeps escalating,”

Maybe, possibly, eventually, at some distant point in the future, if enough constellations align. I can tell you that I’m not making any plans based on that possibility,” Moore said. He continued: “I’m involved because I believe the passage of 3A zoning will be beneficial to the town. At the very least — even if zero housing units get built, which is not my desired outcome — it will make us eligible for bILLING bLUNDer

Inflated tax bills hit Historic District

Overcharges to be credited later, officials say BY WILL DOWD

About 700 property owners in Marblehead’s Historic District received incorrect tax bills due to miscalculations linked to a data entry error, an issue the Board of Assessors has discussed at recent public meetings.

The miscalculation became apparent when Historic District residents received inflated first- and second-quarter tax bills for fiscal year 2025. According to emails between town officials and a resident, the assessor’s office was in transition when these bills were generated, with the assistant assessor position vacant.

“It all comes out in the wash when considered over all four quarters,” said John Kelley, chair of the Board of Assessors. “If you pay more in the first two quarters, you would pay less for the last two quarters.” Officials spoke to the issue in emails when local attorney Patricia Lausier questioned her tax assessment for 147 Washington St. Despite her property’s $2,127,600 valuation calling for quarterly payments of $4,765.82 at the town’s tax rate of $8.96, she received a bill for $6,256.54 per quarter.

The Current asked Board of Assessors Chair John Kelley the total amount of overcharges, and did not immediately receive a response.

“These preliminary tax bills are committed

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead resident Leila Blodgett is on the board of directors at American Promise (below), which is promoting a Constitutional amendment to allow limits on campaign donations.

HOUSING,

MHS athletes produce video supporting teachers

BY LEIGH BLANDER

TThe night before Marblehead educators were expected to sit down for their 16th round of contract talks with the School Committee bargaining subcommittee on Monday, Nov. 4, nearly 20 Marblehead High School athletes released a video they produced showing their support for educators.

MHS seniors Will Cerruti, Nate Assa and Jonah Potach organized the video. They’re worried that if teachers strike, both academics and athletics will stop.

“One, we love our teachers. They support us all the time and now is our time to support them,” Potach wrote to the Current.

“And two, we want to be able to represent our town in these state championships and these meets and these races and games, playoff games, whatever it is. We want to represent our town. And if we aren’t given the opportunity to do that, then that would honestly be really disappointing and sad for a lot of us because we’ve worked really hard for this.”

Go to MarbleheadCurrent.org to watch the students’ video and learn what happened at the Nov. 4 negotiations.

On Oct. 28, more than 70 members of the Marblehead

Education Association packed a bargaining session and later expressed frustration at what they called the School Committee’s “lack of urgency” in reaching a deal.

“The commitment of our educators is evident in their presence tonight, said Hanna Partyka, Glover School kindergarten teacher. “We are here to fight for our students and our colleagues, and we need the School Committee to recognize the seriousness of our situation.

The time for playing games is over — it’s time to step up.”

The MEA presented a minipackage, including some new proposals.

“We’ve made significant movement on our proposals, including withdrawing key proposals the School Committee has highlighted as difficult to agree to, yet they seemed more focused on changing the font of their documents than on making substantial offers that would support educator retention and student well-being,” said Marblehead High School English

teacher Anna Buono.

The School Committee’s bargaining subcommittee wrote in a statement that it presented “updated proposals for Unit A (teachers), paraprofessionals, tutors and permanent substitutes at the start of the meeting which extended the benefit of enrollment of non-resident staff children to all units dependent on availability of space. The union provided a revised Unit A proposal for paid leave, class sizes and other items to the subcommittee, however made no movement on their wage proposals.”

The subcommittee said there’s simply not enough money to fund the teachers’ requests.

“The School Committee is legally required to bring forth a balanced budget,” the subcommittee’s statement continued. “Any additional funding requests above what the town currently is able to fund would need to be covered through reductions (the majority of which would be realized through staff lay-offs), an override or a

combination of both. The current proposal by the union would result in an ask at the polls for an override that, if it fails, would trigger the lay-off of more than 15% of Marblehead school staff.

While the union asserts they are willing to take that chance, the subcommittee cannot agree to a contract that has the potential to ultimately require layoffs of this magnitude.”

‘Immediate action and accountability’

The MEA called for “immediate action and accountability,” according to its statement.

“We need our elected leaders to prioritize our community’s future,” said Glover School special education pre-K teacher Laura Weiss. “This is not just about us; it’s about every student who walks through the doors of our schools.”

The School Committee met in executive session on Oct. 29 to discuss the latest in bargaining.

Chair Jenn Schaeffner has asked the committee to approve a contract with a Boston public relations firm — at up to $350 an hour — to manage communication around contract talks. The initial retainer is for $9,500. The full committee has not taken a vote on that yet.

The negotiations have been ongoing since March, with educators asking for higher wages, better family leave benefits and a say in establishing safety protocols.

Teachers have been working without a new contract since Aug. 31, custodians since June 30.

BY WILL DOWD

Marblehead will honor its veterans with a series of events beginning with a Council on Aging and Masons Veterans Day breakfast on Friday, Nov. 8, at 9 a.m. at the Jacobi Community Center. Veterans must register in advance at 781-631-6225,

Then on Monday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m., the town will hold its formal Veterans Day ceremony at Abbot Hall. The event, organized by Veterans Service Officer Roseann Trionfi-Mazzuchelli, will feature the Marblehead High School Chorus performing patriotic songs including “America The Beautiful” and “Marblehead Forever.” VFW Commander Ronald Knight will serve as the keynote speaker.

“We’re keeping it very low key this year,” said TrionfiMazzuchelli. “The ceremony will include reading the names of recently deceased veterans, which is always one of our most solemn moments.”

The program will open

Blodgett said. “There will be 30 billionaires running the country. It does not seem to be slowing down. And so much of that money is used in negative advertising, which everybody hates.”

American Promise, based in Concord, hosts meetings in communities around the country.

“My husband, Fred, and I just became very intrigued and began to see how important it is. This issue sits on top of all the other issues that we care about — the environment, gun laws, abortion laws. It feels like money is swaying the interests. So if your interests don’t align with the money, you’re S-O-L (s—t out of luck).”

with greetings from TrionfiMazzuchelli, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Select Board Chair Erin Noonan will read the Governor’s Proclamation, and a chaplain will offer prayers during the service. John Collins will perform “Taps,” followed by a moment of silence to honor fallen service members.

Following the morning ceremony, veterans and their families are invited to a breakfast

To pass, a Constitutional amendment needs a vote in the House and Senate and then ratification by ¾ of state legislatures. So far, 22 states, including Massachusetts, have passed resolutions supporting the For Our Freedom amendment, indicating that they’ll ratify if Congress sends it to them, according to American Promise.

“Our goal is to pass out of Congress, and out to the states for ratification, in the next few years,” Blodgett said.

American Promise released a survey last week that shows most Americans oppose excessive campaign spending.

“A staggering 82% of respondents agreed that money in politics is a serious threat to our democracy,” the group wrote in an email. “We also found that

at the VFW. Trionfi-Mazzuchelli noted special arrangements are being made to provide refreshments for the high school band members participating in the ceremony, marking a new addition to this year’s event.

The Council on Aging will provide free van shuttle service to Abbott Hall for the Veterans Day ceremonies. Beginning at 9 a.m., the van will transport attendees from the National Grand Bank

77% of voters support our plan to amend the Constitution.”

Congressman Seth Moulton, who represents Marblehead, is on board.

“Our political process is distorted by big money. And when those with massive amounts of wealth, like Elon Musk, can use that wealth to influence elections and government policy — pushing aside the voice of everyday Americans — we no longer have a truly representative government.”

Moulton continued: “I’m supportive of the efforts by American Promise to push for reform in a bipartisan way. We all know that it’s time for change. Allowing Congress and the states to set reasonable limits on campaign spending is a common-sense approach to a dire problem.”

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Veterans Town Hall with Moulton

At 1 p.m., U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton will host his annual Veterans Town Hall at Abbott Hall, marking the 10th anniversary of an initiative he started with author Sebastian Junger in 2015. The event provides veterans a platform to share their experiences with their community in a non-political setting, with attendees simply listening to the veterans’ stories without asking questions.

Last year’s town hall drew a packed crowd, where veterans shared defining moments from their service and discussed challenges faced before, during, and after their military careers. The format, designed to help bridge the divide between civilians and the small percentage of Americans who have served, has become a model for similar events across the country.

State Rep. Jenny Armini and Sen. Brendan Crighton, who also represent Marblehead, support the idea of an amendment to allow states to limit political fundraising.

“Unlimited, unchecked and unreported money pollutes our political system. A Constitutional amendment is worth considering,” Armini said.

American Promise leaders are encouraging voters to sign a pledge that reads, “I join the overwhelming majority of Americans to demand an amendment to the United States Constitution to end the domination of big money in politics and give voice to all Americans.”

It’s also looking for donations to support the campaign. For more information, visit americanpromise.net.

lot to Abbott Hall and back after the ceremonies.

COURTESY PHOTO

More than 70 members of the Marblehead Education Association joined contract talks with School Committee representatives on Oct. 28.

CURRENT PHOTO / NICOLE GOODHUE BOYD Marblehead veterans and community leaders gather for a solemn Veterans Day ceremony at Abbott Hall, honoring the service and sacrifice of local veterans.

Couple shares passion for TV series, brings documentary to Warwick

BY LEIGH BLANDER

We all have our favorite TV shows. You might say Marbehead couple Christina and Sam Easthope are a bit obsessed with theirs — the Emmy-winning, sci-fi survival series “Lost,” which aired from 2004 to 2010.

“Lost” chronicled the lives of a group of people who survive after their commercial passenger jet crashes on a remote island in the Pacific.

“‘Lost’ is a show about redemption, second chances and letting go. It’s billed as a survivor drama, but it’s at its essence a story about flawed people who find their path and purpose in mysterious ways,” explained Christina, who, like her husband, works as a server at The Beacon Restaurant.

She added, “The characters and their journey is what really brings ‘Lost’ together. And of course it’s filmed on location in one of the most beautiful places on earth, Oahu, Hawaii.”

On the 24th anniversary of the “Lost”’ pilot, the Easthopes

are bringing a new documentary about the show to the Warwick Cinemas on Nov. 9-10. It’s called “Getting Lost,” and it features exclusive interviews with “Lost” creators and stars. The film delves into the impact “Lost” had on its fans and the broader television landscape.

Christina remembers the first time she watched “Lost” when she was a student at Salem State.

“Over the next week or so I rode my bike to Blockbuster to rent the DVDs to catch up on the first season,” she said. “When it was airing, our group of theater

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friends from Salem State would get together each Wednesday to watch the new episode. My group would rewatch and analyze each episode, exchanging theories and recounting favorite moments. We held ‘Lost’themed parties and wrote parody songs that we performed. There were online message boards, forums and ARG games built around the show that we would participate in.”

Not surprisingly, the Easthopes have watched the series multiple times. During COVID, they started researching

the locations in Hawaii where it was filmed. They have traveled to Oahu multiple times for “Lost” events, exploring the filming locations and meeting with other fans from around the world.

They also attended the world premier of “Getting Lost” in Beverly Hills in September.

“It was an unforgettable experience to celebrate a show that has meant so much to us,” Christina said. “I’m thrilled to share this incredible film with our communities and fellow Losties at the Warwick.”

The event is also a fundraiser for Cancer Gets Lost, a nonprofit that raises money for various cancer charities through live and online auctions of rare and autographed pop culture memorabilia. All proceeds will go directly to the Lymphoma Research Foundation. There will be showings of “Getting Lost” on Saturday, Nov. 9 at 4 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 10 at 2:30 p.m. A questionand-answer period will follow each screening. For more information, visit warwickcinemas.com.

COURTESY PHOTO / ANDREW MAX LEVY

Christina and Sam Easthope attend the Beverly Hills premier of “Getting Lost” this spring.

Opinion

eDITorIAL

A decade of creating a sacred space for veterans

As Veterans Day approaches, Marblehead’s historic Abbot Hall will once again host two important events: the town’s traditional Veterans Day ceremony and Congressman Seth Moulton’s Veterans Town Hall. The Veterans Town Hall marks its 10th anniversary this year, having evolved into a valuable tradition that helps connect veterans with their community. At the state level, Gov. Maura Healey signed significant new veterans’ legislation in August, making 2024 a notable year for veteran support both locally and statewide.

When Moulton, a Marine Corps veteran who served four tours in Iraq, partnered with author Sebastian Junger to launch the town hall 10 years ago, they created what Junger called “a sacred space” — where veterans could share their experiences with neighbors who simply listen. No questions asked. No politics discussed. Just stories that needed telling and a community ready to hear them.

The format works because it’s straightforward. Veterans from all eras stand before their community and speak their truth. Some share stories of valor, others of loss. Many discuss the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life. These honest accounts have helped bridge the gap between military and civilian experiences. Meanwhile, Moulton continues to work on several important initiatives in Congress. His efforts to expand the 988 mental health hotline to active-duty service members could provide crucial support during times of crisis. The congressman’s advocacy for the GI Bill Restoration Act seeks to address a historic injustice by providing long-denied benefits to Black World War II veterans and their descendants.

His work extends to current veteran health challenges as well. His provision in the National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Defense to track servicemembers’ exposure to blast overpressure shows foresight in addressing traumatic brain injuries. His support for medical alternatives in treating veterans’ mental health demonstrates a willingness to explore new solutions to persistent problems. Through these initiatives, Moulton continues to follow through on the spirit of the Veterans Town Hall: listening to veterans’ needs and taking action to address them. His recent efforts to restore benefits for service members penalized under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell have contributed to meaningful change, with hundreds of military personnel seeing their service records upgraded to honorable discharges.

This summer, Healey signed the HERO Act (Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing our Servicemembers and Veterans), which includes over 30 provisions that will benefit hundreds of thousands of veterans in Massachusetts. The act expands access to behavioral health treatment, increases benefits for disabled veterans, supports businesses that hire veterans and updates the definition of who qualifies as a veteran. It marks the first comprehensive veterans’ legislation package in Massachusetts in over 20 years.

This Veterans Day, Marblehead offers three opportunities to honor those who have served. The town’s traditional Veterans Day ceremony begins at 10 a.m. at Abbot Hall, featuring the high school choir, the reading of the governor’s proclamation, recognition of veterans from all wars and remarks from VFW Commander Ronald Knight. The ceremony will include a reading of the names of veterans who have passed away this year. A breakfast at the VFW will follow.

Later that day, at 1 p.m., Moulton will host his 10th annual Veterans Town Hall, also at Abbot Hall.

On Nov. 8, the Marblehead Council on Aging and Masons will host their annual Veterans Day breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Jacobi Community Center.

Your presence at these events shows support for our veterans and helps strengthen community bonds.

everYTHING WILL be oKAY

(Not my) wise words

BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM

PhLandslide, squeaker or too close to call? As of this writing, I don’t know which will be our reality today, but I do know this: “If you’re looking for the darkness, you’ll find it. The sun always comes up, and the moon comes up and the stars, there’s always light to be looked for, if we look for it.”

These are not my wise words, but the counsel of an almost 104-year-old woman on one of those ubiquitous Instagram reels that is making its way around. She’s seen a lot of good and bad, including living through World War II. “Every day there was something that was scary,” she said, “the world was broken, totally broken.”

Her advice to us now? “If we have something that we have to share and we share it, life gets more exciting, not only for us but for the person that finds the light.” And her takeaway from her long life — “It’s an amazing experience to be alive at this point, I’m in awe.”

Feel awe. Share your talents. Seek light. Wise words indeed.

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Voting in a non-swing state, with little to no competitive races to choose from, I appreciated getting to weigh in on the five statewide ballot questions. I’m a fan, anyway, of this form of direct democracy though I know many aren’t. I get that some ballot questions bring a simplistic approach to issues of great complexity, but, speaking of those with wisdom, I trust voters to figure it out.

Leslie Graves, the founder of the civic engagement organization Ballotpedia, suggests, “The history and evolution of ballot measures can tell us a lot about voters’ changing attitudes, policy preferences and leading concerns. Sometimes, those concerns are purely practical. Other times, they become movements that reshape the political landscape.” Observing the rise and outcome of ballot questions as a way to understand bigger forces in our civic life? Seems like a wise approach to me.

nnn

The oodles of good Dolly Parton has done for the world with her warm and generous spirit are well known. Thanks to Maria Shriver, I came across some Dolly wisdom to apply post-election. In an interview, Parton said, “There are a lot of good people in this world that are confused and scared with all the craziness going on. But I think there have always been those special people in every community that can draw people together. I think it’s important to encourage people to get out and do more for the community, do more to help the circle that you live in. We cannot save the world but we can save as much of it as we can. We can make it a little bit more enjoyable by not letting all

Bargain in good faith

To the editor:

In a recent guest column contribution, “Former School Committee member weighs in on collective bargaining,” resident Thomas Mathers highlighted a number of recommendations concerning ongoing teacher negotiations.

As a former vice chair of the Marblehead Finance Committee (albeit over 25 years ago), and the father of two public school teachers (not employed by the town), I question one of the points Mr. Mathers raised: “Remove unfunded mandates ... such as allowing non-Marblehead resident teachers, paraprofessionals, etc. to have their children attend MPS for free. At a fully burdened cost of $20,000/child per year, this leads to significant expense to our taxpayers.”

Well, let’s see, is the elimination of this little “perk” going to yield a financial windfall to our community, or simply

In an interview, Dolly Parton said, “... I think it’s important to encourage people to get out and do more for the community, do more to help the circle that you live in. We cannot save the world but we can save as much of it as we can. ...”

the doomsday stuff and the craziness stop us from doing fun things, good things, working more in the community to make things happen that you do understand and that you can control.”

Parton’s common sense advice has long had broad appeal no matter where you fall on the political spectrum with sayings like, “Storms make trees take deeper roots.” And, “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”

This, though, is my personal favorite: “Every single diet I ever fell off of was because of potatoes and gravy of some sort.” Now that’s wisdom.

nnn

I recently had the great gift of spending a few days in the beautiful city of Amsterdam. Its canals and architecture and joyful vibe were made all the more vivid by its conscious embrace of a painful past. Tours of the Anne Frank House Museum are sold out weeks in advance, and as we waited for our turn to go inside, we saw many disappointed visitors turned away.

A reverent hush fell over the line of people entering the Secret Annex as we climbed past the original bookcase that hid its entrance. The rooms remain empty of furniture per the request of Anne’s father, Otto, who wanted the hiding place to remain as the Nazis left it after arresting his family. So it’s the words that are displayed on mostly bare walls which fill eyes and hearts.

Besides her famous diary, I didn’t know Anne kept a book to fill with “beautiful sentences” that inspired her. Writing itself, she wrote, “lets me get rid of it all, my sorrow disappears, my courage is revived!”

What relieves your sorrow, revives your courage? Those questions seem worth reflecting on as we contemplate our own individual roles and attitudes in shaping our country’s, and our community’s, path in the next four years. Because no matter who won Nov. 5, “the sun always comes up, and the moon comes up and the stars, there’s always light to be looked for, if we look for it.”

Virginia Buckingham, a member of the Marblehead Current’s Board of Directors, is the former chief executive officer of the Massachusetts Port Authority, chief of staff to two Massachusetts governors, deputy editorial page editor for the Boston Herald and author of “On My Watch: A Memoir.”

punish our municipal employees for proceeding with the American right to bargain for better wages and benefits?

Employees who reside outside of the district and are allowed to enroll immediate family members in our town’s school system.

Mr. Mathers states “... we may have 20 or more enrolled students ... ($400,000) ...”

OK, let’s follow this through. If this handful of kids, scattered throughout the entire K-12 student body, are eliminated from enrollment, where will the savings come from? Will we now save thousands of dollars by:

Reducing the need to fund costly facility maintenance?

Reducing the number of required teacher positions?

Reducing heating costs?

Reducing transportation costs?

Reducing administration costs?

Reducing cafeteria labor costs?

Reducing sports and activities costs?

Reducing any of the additional fixed costs this school system must fund?

The answer is no.

So where is the $400,000 savings this proposal will accomplish? Following this suggestion will have little or no effect on the Marblehead school department’s budget. Taking away this minor “perk” may hinder our town’s ability to attract highly qualified and dedicated nonresident employees, and it most certainly will be the cause of unneeded animosity, not only at the bargaining table but throughout the ranks of all our town employees — a highly qualified and dedicated group of people who help make this town such a wonderful community.

Punitive negotiation results in only losers on both sides. Bargaining in good faith, by both sides, yields good results for all. That’s why the process is called ”bargaining.” We all should all be on the same side, keeping Marblehead the extraordinarily wonderful place to reside.

Jay Michaud Ocean Avenue

MEA: Former SC member offered ‘outdated depiction’ of what’s

BY JONATHAN HELLER AND SALLY SHEVORY

While a former member of the School Committee claimed some prescience in a recent opinion piece on the state of contract negotiations between the town and its educators, what he really offered up was an outdated depiction of what it takes to operate a high-quality public school system.

Austerity budgeting has pushed Marblehead Public Schools to the brink, and the community must take corrective action. The first step is to settle a fair contract with educators.

Bullying educators and their supporters is a tactic we have all seen before, here and in cities and towns across Massachusetts. This time, however, the Marblehead Education Association isn’t tolerating management’s dismissive and disrespectful approach to bargaining, much to the chagrin of the School Committee and its notorious union-busting lawyer

leading contract negotiations for the town.

The stall and delay tactics are meant to push bargaining into state mediation, which is a misleading name for a process that does not expedite a settlement but separates the parties and forces shuttle diplomacy that drags out bargaining and generates billable hours for the committee’s outside attorney.

For more than a year, the members of the MEA — the ones at the bargaining table with a vested interest in having working conditions that meet the needs of students — have been laying out the crisis facing the town when it comes to the public schools: wages are not competitive; the lack of paid family leave is out of step with state law that applies to the private sector and with contemporary workplace policies; and Marblehead Public Schools are becoming increasingly unsafe learning and working environments for

students and staff. These are priorities established by the members of the MEA and nobody else. Likewise, the members of the MEA have crafted reasonable proposals to address these issues and have been forthcoming about the need to address revenue growth in the town.

Fiscal responsibility does not always mean paying as little as possible; sometimes it means investing wisely in the long-term health of our community.

Wages for Marblehead educators lag behind those of comparable districts and surrounding districts. Our skilled teachers could make tens of thousands of dollars more working elsewhere; our ability to attract bright new talent is severely hampered.

The School Committee can toss around percentages all it wants to; big percentages of small earnings still don’t get us to where we need to be and the educators at the top of the pay scale are experiencing stagnant wage growth.

Marblehead’s maximum salary step is below the comparable step in the following school districts: Wayland, Hingham, Andover, Peabody, Salem, Beverly, Manchester-Essex, Swampscott, and thanks to recent settlements of their own, Danvers, Masconomet and Ipswich as well.

The top salary step for educators in Hingham, one of the districts that the School Committee said we should be comparing ourselves to, is $20,000 more than what is available to an educator of comparable education and experience in Marblehead.

Educators are sensitive to the needs of the community and the MEA is making proposals that build up wages over the life of the contract, allowing the town time to plan and prepare to close these gaps.

These are challenging times for educators, and the profession is not attracting young people the way it used to. Young professionals are mystified when they learn municipal employees

in Massachusetts are exempt from the paid family leave law that applies to the private sector. With challenges in filling staff positions, the district exposes itself to the risk of mishandling student mental health and behavior issues. When staff is stretched to the limit, it becomes nearly impossible to fulfill legally mandated special education plans or to simply have enough adults in our buildings to maintain healthy and safe learning environments and manageable class sizes and caseloads.

High-quality education is not inexpensive. But it also should not be accessible only to those who can afford tuition at a private school. Marblehead Public Schools educate the majority of children in town and are central to the quality of life here. A fair contract for the MEA represents a sensible investment in our community.

On behalf of the MEA bargaining team, Jonathan Heller and Sally Shevory MEA co-presidents

Let’s trade FOMO for JOMO

BY LISA SUGARMAN

As human beings, we’re innately social creatures who are designed to form and cultivate new connections and live together as a part of a greater community. It’s just the essence of who we are. I mean, sure, in the veeeeery beginning, our social nature was driven by our need to survive, so, we relied heavily on each other just to exist. Now, though, we have incredibly intricate and complex social lives that depend on our interactions with each other, and that dependency has evolved to the point where we hate being left out of anything. Like anything.

And that can lead to a whole bunch of toxic outcomes around the fear of missing out, also known as FOMO.

You know, it’s that Gen Z term that refers to the anxiety (or fear) that comes up when we miss an exciting event or experience or opportunity that other people are enjoying. They’re the things we don’t want to miss out on but, for whatever reason, we do.

Now, maybe it’s because we

intentionally weren’t included in something or maybe the thing we want to do just didn’t jibe with our schedule. Whatever the reason, the point is that we’re missing out on something that we wish we weren’t. And that can bring up lots of feelings of anxiety and envy and sadness over being excluded and it can be really tough on our mental health.

But there’s a new acronym that’s gone mainstream over the past couple of years that’s the opposite of FOMO that I’ve actually embraced, and it’s called JOMO — the joy of missing out.

Lemme tell you why. I believe it’s actually the antidote to FOMO because it’s the feeling of truly enjoying spending your free time doing whatever the hell you want, without worrying that something more interesting or better is happening somewhere else.

And lemme tell you, the concept of JOMO has been a game changer for my personal mental health. Because as soon as JOMO hit my radar, I immediately started reframing how I think about the idea of missing out on things. I did an emotional deep dive into how I was spending my free time and as soon as I started being honest

with myself about why I was doing the things I was doing, I had an awakening. I realized that so much of what I was doing was coming from a place of insecurity over not wanting to miss out on things. And in my mid-50s, that was the absolute last thing I wanted to be driving my decisions to do anything. I also found myself not wanting to let other people down, and since many of my decisions were predicated on what other people needed from me, ended up doing lots of things for the wrong reasons. And I’m pretty sure if you’re being honest with yourself, you’ll agree you do the same. The truth, I discovered, was that the things I was doing and the people I was spending time with and the places I was going didn’t always align with what was in my heart. But I was doing them anyway because I didn’t want to miss out or disappoint anyone. And that revelation created an almost instantaneous mind shift into a more positive and mindful emotional place. Because I recognized that all I really wanted was to be content and present in the moment. Any moment.

And I wasn’t achieving that when my decisions were based

on what was making other people happy.

So, if you want a breakdown of why JOMO is a healthier mindset, here you go: 1. It reduces stress. By embracing JOMO, we avoid the pressure to constantly engage in social activities or stay connected online, which can ultimately lead to burnout or anxiety.

2. It fosters mindfulness. JOMO encourages being present in the moment and finding contentment in one’s own space, helping people focus on their own mental and physical health.

3. It promotes self-care. It allows us time to rest, reflect and engage in activities that bring us authentic joy and relaxation and that creates better mental health and well-being.

4. It improves focus. Without the constant distraction of FOMO, people can concentrate better on personal goals and relationships that are truly meaningful.

5. It improves your mental health. JOMO often leads to better overall mental wellbeing because it reduces the constant self-doubt or inadequacy that FOMO manifests.

6. It leads to better decisionmaking. With JOMO, we’re prioritizing what really matters

to us, instead of chasing trends or social validation which are really nothing more than optics.

The point is, by accepting and actively practicing JOMO, we can create a healthier balance between our social time and our alone time. And that can be life changing.

So, whenever you’re feeling those feelings of FOMO bubbling up and threatening to put you in a bad headspace, flip the script and remember that the joy of missing out can actually be a gift because you’re doing what makes you happy and not wasting time and energy trying to keep up with the Joneses. And they’re posers anyway, so trying to keep up with them is just a waste of time and energy.

Lisa Sugarman is an author, nationally syndicated columnist, three-time survivor of suicide loss, mental health advocate and crisis counselor with The Trevor Project. She’s also a storyteller with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the host of The Suicide Survivor Series on YouTube. Sugarman is also a Survivor of Suicide Loss Grief Group facilitator for Samaritans. Visit her online at lisasugarman. com.

‘And so it goes. Giving back is what it’s really all about.’

BY DAVID ROPER

In this era of seemingly endless bad news upon bad news, it’s refreshing to encounter some of the other kind: the good stuff. And it’s local. I’d like to share it. Sometimes the most selfless givers among us go unnoticed. Sometimes it’s only the selfpromoters who get heralded. This is, in a sense, a turnaround story about a local man who has been giving back to this community and, to my mind, needs to be noticed. Or even heralded. I met him years ago when he asked me to draft a letter to his landscape customers. Just another landscaper in town? Maybe not. For 59 years, Dean Cuzner has lived in this community. Like

author

all of us, he has had his ups and downs. I’ve known him through all of these. For a while, alcohol addiction got the best of him.

His company, Cuzner / W.H.I.P. Landscaping — went down to one truck and was nearly gone. That was years ago. Then, on July 21, 2012, Dean decided

enough was enough. Since his recovery, he runs one of the larger landscape companies in the area with dozens of vehicles and employees. His life is now, in a big part, about giving back. Giving back through both his company and in his personal time. How? Let’s start with the town. I found out that for no charge he provides landscape services to the town at such sites as Abbott Hall, Clark Landing, Memorial Park for Veterans and Fan Zone at Marblehead High School. It’s one way he’s giving back. Another is to those suffering from addiction. Dean’s recovery came in part through an inspiring woman named Michelle Simmons, head of the Recovery Coaching

Certification Program at North Shore Community College. Dean was one of 27 in his class from all walks of life receiving comprehensive training as a recovery coach.

“One thing I learned,” Dean says, “Is it’s ‘one day at a time’ for every day. And another: when someone struggling with addiction says to me that they’re ‘all set,’ I tell them no you’re not, you’re NEVER ‘all set’.” Today, Dean’s Instagram site, WHIP Recovery, has 4,800 followers from around the world. And then came the little rocks. They were one of his inspirations. Dean carries them everywhere he goes now. When he encounters someone seeming down or needy, he hands one out. The smooth little rocks are

inscribed with such phrases as: One Day at a Time, Never Give Up, Keep it Simple, Live, Inspire, Success and You Got This.

“It seems so simple,” Dean says, “but just the fact of a stranger engaging with someone in need is really profound. It stops people in their tracks, often brings them to tears, almost shocks them into realizing that someone really cares about them. They treasure them. I could tell story after story about what an impact something this simple makes.” And so it goes. Giving back is really what it’s all about.

Dave Roper is the author of five books and owner of A-Script, a Marblehead-based writing and career assistance firm founded in 1982.

David Roper, Marblehead

BY WILL DOWD

The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to the news in brief. Send yours to wdowd@marbleheadnews.

org.

Temple Sinai receives security grant

The Healey-Driscoll administration awarded Temple Sinai a $99,674 grant to bolster security as part of an initiative to protect nonprofits at risk for extremist threats.

Funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and administered by the state’s Office of Grants and Research, this program supports

at-risk organizations in implementing enhanced security measures to ensure safer gathering spaces for all. This grant is among the $7.8 million distributed to 67 nonprofits across Massachusetts.

Rotary honors local artist

On Wednesday, Nov. 13, Marblehead Harbor Rotary will honor artist Ian Sherwin as he unveils his ink pen drawing titled “Abbot Hall” that will be featured as this year’s Holiday Pops signature art and logo.

A reception for Sherwin will be held at the Masons’ Philanthropic Building, 62 Pleasant St., 5:30-7

p.m. There will be light refreshments prepared by Every Little Breeze Catering and a cash bar. This event is free and open to the public.

Every year, Marblehead Harbor Rotary invites a local artist to create a work of art to be featured on the Holiday Pops program cover and on Pops posters. Sherwin, who grew up in Marblehead and moved back recently, runs the Ian Sherwin Gallery on State Street. For more information about the reception, visit rotaryclubofmheadharbor. org.

Friends of MPS celebrates 35 years

Friends of the

Dee.Vigneron@CBRealty.com www.ColdwellBankerHomes.com

Marblehead Public Schools launched its 2024-25 grant season with a new online application process and longer submission period through Jan. 17. The organization, celebrating its 35th year in 2025, has raised more than $2 million and reached over 15,000 students since its founding. The group funded 22 educational programs in 2023-24, including initiatives in sustainability, conservation and technology. For more information, visit friendsofmarblehead.org.

MLT announces auditions for ‘Little Women’ Marblehead Little Theatre has scheduled auditions for “Little Women, The Broadway Musical” on Nov. 10-11 at its School Street theater. Directed by Alexandra Dietrich, the production celebrates the 20th anniversary of the musical, which adapts Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel. Auditions are by appointment, and auditionees are asked to bring a prepared piece in the style of the musical. For more information and to register, visit MLT’s website at MLTLive.org.

Select Board seeks volunteers for capital planning committee

The Marblehead Select Board is seeking three resident volunteers to serve on the town’s Capital Planning Committee, which will oversee major municipal projects valued at over $1 million.

The committee, which was reorganized at last year’s Town Meeting, includes department heads and town employees alongside the resident volunteers. “We need to start on the town side, addressing our facilities. So this will be a perfect time to bring on a committee like this,” Kezer noted. Interested residents can submit letters of interest and resumes to the Select Board at Town Hall, 7 Widger Road, Marblehead, or email wylie@ marblehead.org. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 5, with interviews tentatively scheduled for the Dec. 11 Select Board meeting.

Lunch menu available Wednesday -Sunday 11:30-3pm -Every Tuesday -$2Oysters!Delicious Homemade Authentic Greek Cuisine 261 Washington St, Marblehead 781-499-5006 Online ordering eliamarblehead@gmail.com or through DoorDash and UberEats

Marblehead Boosters launch shoe donation drive The Marblehead Boosters have launched a Show Us the Love shoe donation campaign running through November, accepting gently used and new footwear for charitable causes. The initiative serves multiple purposes: promoting sustainability (as discarded shoes can take 30-40 years to decompose), providing employment opportunities in developing nations and helping local residents declutter their closets. Drop-off locations:

» William Raveis Real Estate, 18 Atlantic Ave.

» MHD Sport Shop, 26 Hawkes St. MHS Lobby, 2 Humphrey St. » National Grand Bank,

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead artist Ian Sherwin will be honored by the Rotary Club of Marblehead Harbor. His drawing of Marblehead Harbor has been chosen as this year’s Rotary’s Holiday Pops logo.

Construction starts on library’s front-entrance ramp

BY WILL DOWD

Construction has begun on a new accessibility ramp at Abbot Public Library, marking a step toward resolving compliance issues that delayed the facility’s summer reopening.

Library Executive Director Kimberly Grad expects the project to be completed before Thanksgiving, ahead of the state-mandated December deadline. Grad is unsure of the total cost of the new ramp, but said the Abbot Library Foundation will help pay for it.

HoUSING CrISIS

The new ramp, being built on the Maverick Street side, will address issues that emerged after the library’s $10 million renovation. The current 79-foot walkway lacks required landings and handrails mandated for ramps exceeding 30 feet.

Until the new ramp is complete, people should access the library through its lower level entrance.

The accessibility issues came to light in June when Building Commissioner Steve Cummings identified the ramp’s noncompliance, forcing a postponement of the library’s grand reopening celebration. The library

later reopened on July 10 after receiving a temporary variance from the state.

“It’s just about not excluding people with disabilities,” said Cummings at the time . “If you’re not making something accessible, you’re not treating them equally. It’s as simple as that.”

Construction must finish by Dec. 1 to meet the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board’s compliance deadline. A 2023 audit identified more than $3.6 million in required Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades to public buildings in Marblehead.

Crighton on pushing for MBTA reform amid resistance

BY WILL DOWD

State Sen. Brendan Crighton, who represents Marblehead, was instrumental in transforming Gov. Charlie Baker’s 2017 Housing Choice Act into what became known as the MBTA Communities Act. As Senate Housing chair, Crighton helped craft legislation requiring cities and towns near transit to zone for multifamily housing, which passed in 2021. With about 80 communities now adopting compliant zoning, and others like Milton facing legal challenges, Crighton discussed the law’s impact and implementation. Marblehead rejected zoning changes at May’s Town Meeting and will be noncompliant as of Dec. 31.

WILL DOWD: When you introduced the MBTA Communities Act, what was your primary vision for how it would address the state’s housing crisis? Did you anticipate that there would be strong resistance to this mandate, particularly in some of the communities you represent?

SEN. BRENDAN CRIGHTON: This conversation truly started in late 2017 when Baker introduced the Housing Choice Act — which would shift a number of critical zoning changes from a super majority vote to a simple majority vote. We were seeing too many good housing projects come up just short of that onerous supermajority threshold — which is why our housing production has fallen so short of our perpetually increasing demand over the last 30 years. The Legislature

Taxes

saw this as an opportunity to make impactful housing legislation — introducing the idea of communities in MBTA service areas having additional housing requirements. Transitoriented development makes sense for our housing, economic, transportation and climate goals — so communities that have the benefit of being near public transit should allow for at least one zone of multifamily housing. This amendment was passed in the Legislature’s economic development bill and signed by Governor Baker. Prior to it being an amendment, this was filed as a bill, had multiple public hearings and was vetted by a wide range of stakeholders. Zoning matters are always complicated and can generate a healthy debate. The MBTA Communities Act is no different.

DOWD: With the Attorney General’s case involving Milton now before the Supreme Judicial Court, questions around enforcement authority are gaining attention. Was it your intent, when drafting the act, to give the Attorney General enforcement power to ensure compliance? And if so, how do you see this unfolding in practice?

CRIGHTON: The Healey Administration truly wants to partner with communities. By offering technical assistance, grant funding and continued dialogue with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, there have been ample opportunities for communities to reach compliance. But the Attorney General has the power to enforce the state’s laws, and

that is what we are seeing in the Milton case.

DOWD: The MBTA Communities Act is a major step in addressing Massachusetts’ housing crisis, but the response has shown that housing reform remains a complex issue. Looking back, are there any lessons you’ve learned from this experience that could inform future housing legislation?

CRIGHTON: A lot of work went into the creation of this law, and I think that shows how dedicated we are to getting it right. Combating misinformation is always part of the process. But as with any new idea, we engage with stakeholders to ensure they have the facts and resources to make the best possible decisions. The overarching fact is stark: Many families can no longer afford to live in Massachusetts. According to a MassINC poll conducted this summer, seven of 10 Massachusetts residents are burdened by housing costs. Among residents who said both their housing and transportation costs pose a “very big” burden, 38% are thinking about leaving

Massachusetts in the next five years, a higher share than the overall population.

The magnitude of the crisis means that this will not be solved overnight. We cannot be afraid to be bold when it comes to housing policy.

DOWD: One of the core issues surrounding the act is the tension between state-level goals and local control over zoning laws. How do you personally balance the need for statewide housing reform with respect for local autonomy, especially in towns like Marblehead that have resisted compliance?

CRIGHTON: I completely understand communities wanting to have local autonomy.

During my time as a Lynn city councilor I worked on many local issues, including zoning reform. I saw firsthand how difficult it is to pass zoning changes on the local level. Local leaders are in the best position to know the character of their communities and what makes sense for them. That’s why the state gave communities the flexibility to design their own plans.

There is a misconception out there that the state doesn’t have the final say when it comes to zoning. It does. That’s why the SJC didn’t even raise it as a question during the hearing last month. Chapter 40B (enacted in 1969) and Chapter 40R (enacted in 2004) are two past examples of the state intervening in local zoning to encourage affordability and density.

Our housing challenges have only worsened since then. We’re at a point where people who want to stay in their

communities can no longer do so. The MBTA Communities Act provides opportunities to create more housing — to inject much-needed supply into the supply/demand equation — with sustained input from local leaders and the community.

DOWD: You represent a diverse district, with Marblehead, Lynn, Nahant, Swampscott and Lynnfield all having unique housing, economic and community needs. How do you approach advocating for the MBTA Communities Act across your district, considering that some communities have more enthusiasm or resistance toward the legislation?

CRIGHTON: Each community has its own local process to go through to adopt these zoning changes. And that process provides ample opportunity for public input before being finalized. Everyone understands that housing prices are out of control and that’s largely because we have a serious supply problem. From there, each community goes through its own local process to adopt these zoning changes based on individual size and character. Marblehead chose to create three separate districts with a height limit of three stories. Lynnfield created three with a height limit of four stories. That process provides ample opportunity for public input before being finalized.

I will continue to support all of the communities I represent and make sure that they have the resources needed to create the best possible zoning policies for their individual communities.

taxes that can not be adjusted now,” wrote Richard Scanlon, assistant assessor consultant, in an email response. “However, these bills will be corrected when the 3rd and 4th tax bills are generated in January and April, 2025 respectively.”

Officials say residents who overpay in the first two quarters will receive credits in their spring tax bills.

From P. A1 In brief

From P. A6

91 Pleasant St. » Piper Field Snack Shed (during game days) For more information, marbleheadboosters.org.

Ballet groups begin winter clothing collection

Two local dance organizations launched their fifth annual winter clothing drive running through Dec. 14. The Marblehead School of Ballet and North Shore Civic Ballet are collecting new and gently used winter coats for all ages and new pajamas for children ages 6 and under.

The Historic District error follows a turbulent period for Marblehead’s assessment department. Earlier this year, the town processed 344 abatement requests totaling $541,000 in refunds after widespread valuation errors led to inflated tax bills.

To address these challenges, Marblehead hired Todd Laramie, a town resident and former Hamilton-Wenham assessment director, as the new assessor in September. He started Oct. 28. “What happened here ... that

Anton’s Cleaners will clean donated coats before distribution through Coats for Kids and Families Partners Distribution Network. The network serves Massachusetts Community Action Programs, the Salvation Army and other organizations.

Donated pajamas will go to Lynn Economic Opportunity, a major early education provider in Essex County. To schedule dropoff at 115 Pleasant St., call 781-631-6262.

Leaf collection

The town has announced its 2024-2025 schedule for curbside leaf and grass collection.

Residents can expect collections on their regular trash and

shouldn’t happen,” Laramie said during his job interview. “I know that.”

The town has contracted Patriot Properties to conduct early mini-assessments before sending tax bills in December. Last fiscal year assessment errors disproportionately affected certain neighborhoods, with Naugus Head and the inner Neck being “quite over assessed,” according to Kelley. The Rainbow Road, Lafayette Street and Lead Mills area was notably under-assessed.

recycling days during specific weeks throughout the year. In 2024, collections are scheduled for the weeks of Nov. 25 and Dec. 2. The schedule continues into 2025 with collections planned for the weeks of April 21, May 12 and June 2.

It’s important to note that this service is exclusively for leaves and grass. The town emphasizes that only leaf bags should be used, and plastic bags will not be collected or emptied. To maintain the quality of the compost generated from these collections, bags containing brush or other materials will not be.

Marblehead Select Board seeks volunteers

The Marblehead Select Board seeks volunteers for various town committees and commissions. Current openings include:

Cable Television Advisory Committee: Three vacancies, one-year terms.

» Conservation Commission: One vacancy, three-year term.

» Design Review Board: One vacancy, three-year term.

Fair Housing Committee: One vacancy for an alternate member, three-year term.

» Marblehead Cultural Council: Four vacancies, three-year terms.

Marblehead Community Access and Media, Inc.: One vacancy, three-year term.

» MBTA Advisory Board: One vacancy, one-year term.

» Task Force Against Discrimination: Two vacancies, one-year terms.

The Board encourages applicants to attend a meeting of their chosen committee and contact the chair for more information. Interested residents should submit a letter of interest and resume to the Select Board at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St., or email wileyk@marblehead.org.

Leigh Blander contributed to this report.

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD Workers have begun construction on a new ADAcompliant ramp outside Abbot

COURTRESY PHOTO

State Sen. Brendan Crighton, who represents Marblehead, reflects on the law’s statewide impact and ongoing local challenges.

COURTESY PHOTO / TOWN

BY RICK CUZNER

Last week, I captured this image of the 2024 hunter’s moon from my backyard in Marblehead. This moon appears a bit larger and brighter than the other supermoons of the year. The colder air brings crisp, clear nights, ideal for viewing the night sky. I plan to take full advantage of it during the winter months.

The hunter’s moon, which follows

SUSTAINA bLe m A rbLeHe AD

September’s harvest moon, traditionally aided hunters tracking prey in the autumn fields by providing bright moonlight in the early evening. Like other full moons near perigee, it can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon, according to NASA and The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

The Marblehead Current is proud to partner with photographer Rick Cuzner. Over the past 16 years he has taken thousands of nature photographs.

Save the planet with plastic circularity

BY MARY ELLEN MILLER

Removing plastics from the waste stream and using readily available options for recycling helps

us get the most we can from the material we use every day. This is referred to as plastic circularity, which means using plastics more efficiently by keeping the material in

use for as long as possible. There are more and more options available for us to participate in this crucial sustainable campaign: Recycling standard plastics

» Reusing non-standard plastics

» Choosing non-plastic products

It remains critical to recycle standard plastics by placing them in your curbside bin or bringing them to the Transfer Station. As addressed in our Feb. 28 column, “The Surprising Shape of Marblehead Recycling,” all of Marblehead’s recycling ends up at the Republic Services Materials Recovery Facility in Peabody. Eighty percent to 85% of all material processed at this facility is moved along the recycling supply chain.

Non-standard plastics recycling options for Marblehead and neighboring communities are also available.

MacRae’s Sustainable Goods on Washington Street in Marblehead, PlasticRecycled.com are excellent examples of local resources that offer the option of turning otherwise unrecyclable

plastics into reusable products.

Non-standard plastics that can’t be recycled through Republic Services include “funky” plastics and plastic film. Funky plastics can be brought to MacRae’s Sustainable Goods, including caps/ lids, bread tags, straws, Rx bottles, black takeout containers, food storage containers such as Rubbermaid and small bits of plastic. PlasticRecycled. com collects these materials from MacRae’s and turns them into products such as benches, planters and bowls.

Plastic film such as newspaper bags and mail packages can be brought to many grocery stores and other Trex partner locations. Trex is the world’s largest manufacturer of woodalternative composite decking and railing made of 95% recycled materials. Additionally, there are alternatives to bringing this material to grocery

stores that may result in more successful plastic circularity. Obaggo (Obaggo.com) is one of these options and they recently exhibited at our Sustainability Fair. The Obaggo appliance compresses plastic film into compact disks that are then more easily delivered to Trex.

Where possible, it’s also essential to consider swapping your use of plastic products with non-plastic alternatives. When you bring your funky plastics to MacRae’s, spend a few minutes perusing their wide variety of swappable items. There are many great products available to reduce the amount of plastic you use. Also, bring your own or purchase a reusable container or jar to fill your laundry, dish hand soap without the typical plastic packaging. You’ll be glad you did.

Mary Ellen Miller co-chairs the Conservation Working Group of Sustainable Marblehead.

Sports

Magicians ready for the playoffs

After a decisive win, familiar venue begins the team’s road to Gillette Friday

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead Football

Magicians (6-2) were seeded fifth in the Division 4 power rankings prior to their final regular season game against host Danvers (3-5, 13th seed in Division 5) on Friday night, Nov. 1. But after dominating the Falcons to the tune of 34-7, there was some thinking that it could have propelled them to a higher perch. But alas, it did not. Instead, they fell back to the sixth seed, and will now play host to Norwood (4-4, 11th seed) in a Round of 16 game Friday night, Nov. 8, at Piper, beginning at 7 p.m., according to the MIAA (Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association) final rankings and seedings on Nov. 3.

This fall, after eight games, the Marblehead boys have outscored their opponents, 234-103. In the last six contests, they have given up just 38 points, while scoring 215. With statistics like these, they will certainly not be an easy out in the playoffs.

Coach Jim Rudloff’s crew is certainly on a roll, and thoughts of 2021 are probably circulating in many fans’ heads right now. That was the year Marblehead won its first Super

Bowl championship. But while fans might be dreaming of that scenario happening again, what do Rudloff and his two of his captains — Crew Monaco and Colt Wales — think about that possibility.

“I think we have the same belief and goals of that 2021 club,” said Monaco. “I mean those guys from top to bottom had a common goal of getting a

ring, and they worked super hard together to achieve that, and we also have that common goal.”

Wales has similar sentiments, saying, “we have the mindset of a common goal, just like the Super Bowl team. Everybody at that time was close like a family, and just like them we learned how to be close with each other and trust in each other on and off the field.”

The veteran Marblehead coach, however, has a different opinion. “Honestly, there are no similarities at all,” Rudloff said.

“Two very different teams with different personalities, but that’s not a bad thing. This year’s team has a different personality, but the same DNA as the 2021 club.”

Returning to the Danvers game, Marblehead scored first on a 27-yard sprint to the end

zone by Monaco.

Yandel Garcia then accounted for a three-yard touchdown run. It was set up by Rylan Golden’s clutch 21-yard grab on fourth down, which kept that drive alive. Junior quarterback Finn Gallup then hooked up with Sam Thompson on a short toss for six more points. Senior Kieran Moss caught a pass that made the Thompson reception possible, which gave his teammates a 20-7 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Wales found Golden for another

Magicians notebook with the latest girls soccer, cross country results

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead High girls soccer team (9-4-5) shut out non-league Lynnfield on Oct. 26, 3-0 to begin the final week of the regular season. The Magicians then tied Division 1 Newton South, 2-2, and have since started the postseason after press deadline at home on Nov. 5 as the 10th seed in the Division 2 power rankings against the winner of the Northampton (13-2-3, 23rd seed)/Doherty Memorial (10-6-2, 42nd seed) preliminary round game.

Junior Courtney Hitscherich was credited with a goal against the Pioneers assisted by Liv Carlson. It was her seventh goal this season. Lucy McDonald and Callie Gilmore also chipped in with tallies on solo efforts. It was McDonald’s sixth goal of the season, and Gilmore’s 13 th to continue to lead the team in that department.

“This was our first game in over a week, and as a result we started slowly,” said second-year coach Lucy Wales. “Lynnfield controlled the play for the first 20 minutes, but then we called a timeout to reset, and it worked.

Goalie Hailey Gilmore made a terrific save in the second half to preserve the shutout. Wales mentioned that Ava Machado, Sydney Ball and Cam O’Brien all played terrific games in front of her on defense.

Two days later against Newton

We were able to settle into our game after that.” Wales went on to say, “Carlson, who assisted on Hitscherich’s goal, has worked incredibly hard to come back from multiple injuries this season, and to see her hard work payoff is really rewarding.”

South, the Magicians had to settle for a 2-2 tie. Junior Sydney Ball paced the attack with one goal and one assist. She now has four goals this season.

Sophomore Lucy Church also accounted for a goal against Newton South. Ashley Mortensen was credited with one assist. Hailey Gilmore came up with 13 saves in net. Church

has three goals and five assists on the season.

“It was really a tale of two halves,” said Wales. “We scored the first two goals of the game, while controlling the play in the first half.

“The second half of the game was another story, however,” added

COURTESY PHOTOS

Marblehead High girls soccer goalie Hailey Gilmore looks to clear the ball against non-league Lynnfield after making another save during the Oct. 26 game at home.

Marblehead High girls soccer player Sydney Ball moves the ball quickly up field against non-league Lynnfield during the Oct. 26 game at Piper.

Marblehead High senior running back Brady Selvais (33) tries to escape the grasp of a Danvers lineman.

COURTESY PHOTOS / EYAL OREN, WEDNESDAYS IN MARBLEHEAD

Marblehead High senior running back Yandel Garcia (1) dives over the goal line for a touchdown during the game at Danvers last Friday night.

Marblehead boys soccer begins playoffs at home as the 10th seed in Division 2

Magicians close out the regular season with stellar defensive efforts to secure scoreless ties against North Andover, Melrose

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead High boys soccer team (10-2-6) finished the regular season with two defensive battles, both ending in scoreless ties. The Magicians have since headed into the Division 2 playoffs as the 10th seed (38 teams), and as a result they played host to SomersetBerkley Regional (12-6), the 23rd seed, in a Round of 32 game at Piper on Nov. 4 after press deadline.

Against host North Andover (8-5-4), a strong, playoff-bound Division 1 foe, the Marblehead boys possessed the ball very well throughout, while North Andover was initially unable to get into a rhythm during the Oct. 24 game. But they did have an unobstructed view of the net early on, and subsequently blasted away a long shot. However, goalie Rory Zampese was able to bring it down quickly to thwart the scoring attempt.

The Magicians continued to work the ball down the lines, but could not convert on any of their shots to keep the game scoreless.

In the second half, the Scarlet Knights turned up the pressure, and started to disrupt Marblehead’s solid passing game. They were able to shut down the attacking players with an all-around effort.

The North Andover offense had several players that showed off their powerful foot. They were unafraid of shooting from beyond the 18. But the Magician defensive front was able to stifle any realistic scoring chance, and as a result the game ended in a scoreless tie after 80 minutes.

On Monday, Oct. 28, Melrose descended upon Piper Field to

wrap up the regular season for both teams.

The Magicians had hoped to avenge their 2023 5-3 loss.

After beating their Marblehead visitors on that day, the Red

Hawks went on to play in the Division 2 semifinal round a few weeks later.

In the first 10 minutes of this year’s contest, the home team did a solid job of possessing

Veterans School runners celebrate perfect season

BY LEIGH BLANDER

The Veterans School cross country teams just wrapped up an undefeated season with star runners McKenna O’Connell (eighth grade) and Maeve Korgie (seventh grade) winning first and second place at a Northeastern Conference meet in Gloucester last week.

“No one could stay with them,” said Vets coach and physical ed teacher Pat McIntosh. “They beat everybody. They were the cream of the crop.”

The Vets girls team won the NEC meet, while the boys came in second. Eight schools competed. McIntosh said it was an incredible season.

“These kids are really talented,” he said. “The girls, especially, are very serious, always looking to improve.”

The Marblehead High School cross country teams came to Vets’ home meets to show their support.

“They cheered us on, yelling ‘You got this!’ and ‘You’re looking great!’” said McConnell, whose sister Marri runs at MHS.

“It’s fun to have their support because they’re higher school runners and they know what they’re doing,” she continued.

Asked what she likes most about running, Korgie answered, “It’s the feeling of confidence, knowing that you’re good enough. You’re running, you’re getting cramps,but you keep going. You’re proving to yourself that you can do it.”

McConnell added,, “I like being able to push myself. It’s nice to get out and run. You’re away

Wednesday, Nov. 6

6 p.m., football cheerleading, varsity

from all your problems.” McConnell will play basketball this winter. Korgie is looking forward to spring track, where she runs the 800 meter.

the ball by creating lanes and working the ball down the touchlines, before crossing it to the opposite side.

Three early shots put Melrose on notice that this was a

different Marblehead team from the 2023 version. But its defense did an excellent job jumping routes and intercepting passes.

The home team’s speedy back line was impenetrable in the first half, and as a result Melrose was unable to cross the 18 more than a handful of times.

Late in the first half, Marblehead had two consecutive corners, but couldn’t convert.

In the second half, with the game still scoreless, Marblehead turned up the pressure and began dominating possession. To their credit, however, the Red Hawks went with seven defenders, which was an open challenge to the Magicians. They were forced to rely on outside passing lanes and deep balls, because of the congestion in the middle.

Zampese made the save of the game with just under five minutes left on the clock following a miscommunication in the heart of the defense that gave Melrose an opportunity to go ahead. An errant clear bounced at the feet of a Melrose player, who popped it forward to a teammate, but his ensuing shot was deflected out of bounds by the leaping Marblehead goalie to preserve the tie. The team’s stout defense, creative offense and fearless goaltending made it a fun game to watch.

The Magicians completed the regular season with double-digit wins to go along with six ties, the program’s strongest record in years. It’s now onto the playoffs, and the Magicians are slated to have a first-round home game, tentatively scheduled for Nov. 3.

BY JOE MCCONNELL

NAME: Megan Parkman

AGE: 17

FAMILY: Parents: Robert and Nicole; siblings: Caitlin Parkman (19) and Alex Parkman (14)

SCHOOL YEAR: Senior

SPORTS YOU PLAY: Volleyball

FAVORITE SPORT AND WHY: I’ve always loved volleyball, because of my older sister, Caitlin. She’s the one who inspired me to start playing the sport, and once I started playing, I couldn’t stop. The team environment is what makes showing up to practice and playing in games so much fun. I find myself wanting to get better and pushing myself to do so every year.

MOST MEMORABLE MATCH

FOR YOU AND WHY: My most memorable match was our game against Reading. The game went all five sets, and it was hard fought. I remember (as a team) pushing through and finishing out the game on a strong note.

PLANS FOR AFTER MHS:

My top colleges I’m applying to include: San Diego State University, James Madison University and the University of South Carolina. DO YOU PLAN ON PLAYING SPORTS IN COLLEGE: I don’t plan on playing sports in college. However, I plan on trying out for the club volleyball team.

DESIRED CAREER: I’m not exactly sure what career I will go into, but I plan on majoring in marketing in college.

DoU bLe TroU bLe

COURTESY PHOTO

Maeve Korgie, left, and McKenna O’Connell led the Veterans School cross country girls team to a perfect season.

COURTESY PHOTOS / RICH BIBBINS

The Marblehead High boys soccer team’s attacking forwards creates havoc in the Melrose penalty area during the Oct. 28 non-league game at Piper Field.

Marblehead High boys soccer co-captain Quinn Fletcher sends the ball across the field.

This is the first in a series by Current intern Grey Collins spotlighting local residents looking back at their lives in Marblehead over the decades.

BY GREY COLLINS

From the front porch of the very house he was born in, lifelong Marbleheader Steve Elliott, 74, has witnessed dramatic changes to Marblehead’s landscape, culture and lifestyle over the last 70 years. He is now sharing his stories.

Growing up in Marblehead was a very different experience for Elliott than it is for kids nowadays. They had a lot more freedom, he remembered fondly, and much less adult supervision.

“Every morning we would leave, and go off to do whatever we wanted to do,” said Elliott. “We’d be playing sandlot football, sandlot baseball and hanging out with our friends on the water all the time. We had a certain time to be home by, and as long as we were home by then, we could pretty much roam around town and do whatever we wanted.”

When he was born, much of the land in Marblehead hadn’t been developed yet, and a lot of it was being sold to soldiers who had returned from World War II.

“All of the lots around Turner Road were GI lots that the people coming home from the war could buy for $500,” said Elliott. “My dad bought this lot for a few thousand dollars from one of them and he built a house on it.” Elliott was born in that house a few years later, and he still lives there today.

Elliott attended the Coffin

School from kindergarten through sixth grade, a school which is just across the street from his house on Turner Road.

The Coffin School closed down just a few years ago, in 2021. Elliott remembers how different the town was when he was a kid, and how there even used to be a train running through downtown Marblehead.

“I recall taking the train from … where National Grand Bank is now,” said Elliott. “Sometimes we would take it all the way into Boston or Salem.”

He also reminisced about spending time at the minigolf course that used to sit on Lincoln Avenue. Some props from the course are now housed

in the Abbot Hall basement.

These days most kids spend their time playing for Marblehead Youth Baseball or Marblehead Youth Football, but back then they didn’t have organized sports or activities to keep them occupied. However, they found ways to entertain themselves anyway.

“It would always just be a big gang of as many as 30 kids from the neighborhood,” said Elliott. “We would meet up on the street corner to hang out together and play unorganized sports like football, baseball, and hide and seek.”

Back then, they could even drive around town sometimes.

“Starting when we were 11

or 12, some of the kids in the neighborhood had cars,” said Elliott. “And we would drive them around the neighborhood. Times were a lot different then.”

Elliott looks fondly back on a time in which Marblehead had a more tight-knit community, and people looked out for each other more.

“People used to look out for their neighbors all the time,” said Elliott. “If they had a problem, then everyone had a problem and they’d help take care of it. Nowadays I don’t see that much. People are busy spending their time rushing from here to there.”

Elliott recounted a story from when he was 13, in which he

had an accident with a table saw. Nobody in his family was home, but one of his neighbors took him to the hospital with no hesitation.

Elliott also thinks that the heavy community involvement helped kids stay out of trouble and be more respectful towards others.

“If you were out in the neighborhood doing something you shouldn’t be doing, one of the other parents wouldn’t think twice about yelling at you, kicking you in the ass and sending you home,” said Elliott, who thinks that kids these days aren’t as respectful as they used to be.

After high school, Elliott attended Southern Massachusetts Technological Institute, and later worked as a carpenter. He still does carpentry around town, and sometimes helps out people who can’t afford to have work done on their house.

“I’ve made a couple handicap ramps for people who don’t have the money to do it,” said Elliott. “I don’t give them a bill, and if I do it says you owe me one batch of peanut butter cookies.” Elliott also had some important advice to share for kids growing up today. He wants everyone to know that while fitting in might feel important, it isn’t worth it in the long run.

“Don’t be concerned about what your friends think about what you do or don’t do,” said Elliott. “There’s so much pressure to be a part of the in-crowd, but you shouldn’t care about it — and make sure you never look down on anybody else no matter what.”

CURRENT PHOTO / GREY COLLINS

Steve Elliott, 74, stands outside the Turner Street house where he was born and lives now.

Meet Attorney Trista R. Christensen

BY MELISSA STACEY

The following is an interview with Trista Christensen, owner of The Law Office of Trista R. Christensen, conducted by Discover Marblehead. To learn more, visit trchristensenlaw.com.

Tell us about the Law Office of Trista R. Christensen. I am an attorney with almost 29 years of experience. My office is in Salem. I primarily handle real estate matters, including representing buyers, sellers, mortgage companies and banks. In addition to real estate matters, I also handle chapter 7 bankruptcy cases, estate planning and probates and adoptions.

Why did you decide to start your own law firm? I started my own practice in 2004, and I have been working for myself for the past 20 years. I enjoy working for myself as I have control over all aspects of my business. It’s important to me to

have direct communication with my clients and to respond to them in a timely manner, during business hours, as well as after hours. My clients know I will be the one to respond when they call or email. I believe customer service and communication are the key elements to a successful legal practice. I also believe in giving back to my community and supporting small businesses.

I’m a board member of the Marblehead Female Humane Society and an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Marblehead Harbor.

What’s your favorite spot in Marblehead, and why? There are so many great spots

touchdown, before Cam Quigley ran back an interception 40 yards to close out another Marblehead scoring spree. It was his second interception of the game. Wales is not surprised by Quigley’s defensive prowess. “Quigs has been doing that all year,” he said. “The improvement he has made the last two seasons is tremendous. I also want to single out John Schieffer, who has been playing great at middle linebacker. He fills up the holes well.”

Even though the Magicians didn’t break up the game until late, they knew they were in control of their own destiny. “We definitely flipped a switch in the second half,” said Monaco. “We came out a little slow, and the defense wasn’t going the way we would like it to go, so we knew we needed to turn it around, and we did. But we weren’t really surprised, because we expect that of ourselves.”

Crew considers the defense to be the team’s strength, and when they needed it to step up, it did

Wales. “Newton South had the momentum, and was able to tie up the game. They were also able to take advantage of a few of our defensive lapses to earn a point in the overall standings.

“Newton South is a Division 1 team that plays a challenging schedule, but in this game we were just unable to find our rhythm in the second half. But nonetheless, it will give us some things to improve on as we prepare for the postseason.”

The Magicians have since scrimmaged Hamilton-Wenham after press deadline on Nov. 1 to get ready for the Division 2 state tournament.

Boys finish close second in NEC Meet

The Marblehead High boys cross country team

in Marblehead, but my favorite spot is Fort Sewell. You have the best view of Marblehead Harbor, as well as the open ocean. I have fond memories of spending time at Fort Sewell while I was growing up in Marblehead, including picnics with my family and watching the annual harbor illumination and fireworks display on the Fourth of July.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you? Something I think a lot of people would be surprised to know about me is that I’m one of 12 adopted children. My parents are loving, caring individuals who opened their home and hearts to 12 children. My family consists of individuals from different races, cultures and countries. We were raised near the Barnacle Restaurant and Fort Sewell before my family moved to Salem.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I’m married to Andrew G. Christensen, an

attorney in Marblehead, and we enjoy golfing, traveling and spending time with our dogs, Brody and Rambo.

to limit the home team to just seven points. “I trust everyone on the field at all times, because that’s how our team works. We believe in one another,” he added.

Rudloff expected nothing but the best effort from Danvers. “(Danvers) has perennially been one of our toughest opponents. Every year coach Ryan Nolan’s teams have been one of our toughest opponents. They always present a challenge for us,” he said. “And this year was no different, because the conference championship was on the line again.

“Winning a game that could have been

(65 points) finished a close second to Beverly (64 points) in the annual NEC (Northeastern Conference) Meet at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester on Oct. 27. They ended up with a perfect 7-0 record during the regular season.

The Marblehead boys were led by Will Cerrutti (second, 15:09), Nate Assa (third, 15:13) and Jacob Szalewicz (sixth, 15:58). For their efforts, they all earned All-Conference honors.

In the JV race, Peter Sullivan (fourth, 18:39), Chris Shirtfliff (seventh, 19:09) and Thomas Svencer (10th, 19:33) were the top three finishers in this race for the Magicians.

The varsity team is now getting ready for the state Division 2A meet at Ft. Devens in Ayer on Saturday, Nov. 9.

a trap game for us was important,” the veteran Marblehead coach added. “Danvers was a good test for us, and we had to make sure we played well against them.

The game was much closer than it appeared to be as most of the scoring came late.”

Beating another NEC (Northeastern Conference) opponent to remain undefeated against familiar opponents is something Crew and his teammates can be proud of, but the senior captain says that “there’s still a lot left to the season.”

Monaco then added, “We have to believe in one another even more so right

O’Connell defends NEC Meet title successfully

The Marblehead High girls cross-country team competed in the annual Northeastern Conference Championship meet at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester on Oct. 27.

Junior running whiz

Marri O’Connell defended her NEC Meet individual championship successfully after going wire-to-wire, while improving on the 2023 time by 20 seconds.

Peabody captured the team title once again with an impressive lead pack. All five of their top runners crossed the finish line in the top eight. The Magicians ended up third as a team with another wave of impressive performances from the team’s young runners, according to coach Will Herlihy. Of their five top varsity finishers,

now. Practices have to be clean and crisp, and we can’t make any mistakes in games. We need to be on our mental games.”

If all goes well throughout the next three weeks, the Magicians could be playing at Fenway Park in the annual Thanksgiving Day game against Swampscott on the night before the holiday, and just one week later at Gillette Stadium with a Super Bowl championship on the line. Monaco would love to see that take place.

“That’s definitely our goal to play at both venues,” he said, “and we really do think we can do that. We know our potential and capabilities.”

only O’Connell is an upperclassman.

“The NEC should be very competitive in the coming years, with a lot of young talent coming up, and our team specifically will look to compete for the win next fall,” said Herlihy.

Freshmen Ruby Assa (21:15) and Evie Becker (21:48) were the team’s second and third runners after finishing 19 h and 22nd overall at this year’s NEC Meet. They were followed by sophomores Jesslyn Roemer (22:07) and Evelina Beletsky (22:10).

“Excluding Marri, the spread between our second and fifth runners was only 55 seconds at the NEC Meet, which bodes well for them in the upcoming Division 2A qualifying meet at Fort Devens in Ayer on Nov. 9,” added the veteran Marblehead girls coach.

However, Wales with his statement on the near future might be a little bit more conservative. “We haven’t thought about Fenway or Gillette as of yet; we’re just taking it week by week,” he said. “I think we have that weekby-week mentality. In the playoffs, it’s all about depth. You will see a bunch of players who haven’t been playing much. It’s

going to take an entire 65-player effort. We have nothing to lose.”

Rudloff favors Wales’ postseason thinking. “To have any success in the playoffs, we have to stay healthy. We have to take care of our bodies and continue to walk off the field as hard as we play on it. And as always, a little bit of luck doesn’t hurt either.”

The business spotlight is a weekly feature published in partnership with Discover Marblehead. To learn more, visit discovermhd.com.

Marblehead resident Trista R. Christensen, owner of The Law Office of Trista R. Christensen, specializes in real estate, bankruptcy, estate planning, probate and adoption law.

COURTESY PHOTOS / EYAL OREN, WEDNESDAYS IN MARBLEHEAD

Marblehead defensive lineman Jayvery Monegro (70) drags down a Danvers player.

Marblehead junior Rylan Golden (6) makes a leaping catch.

badly-needed grant money, and foreclose the possibility of legal action from the state.”

Local resident Anthony Chamay, while opposed to 3A, defended the coalition’s right to advocate but emphasized the importance of transparency regarding business interests.

“Well, it’s ugly, but it’s legal,” Chamay said when asked about Trevor Moore’s involvement given his father’s property ownership in proposed multifamily zones. “If there’s an opportunity to make money, go for it, as long as you’re not breaking any rules or damaging somebody. This is a free enterprise system.”

However, Chamay, noting that Ted Moore has been “one of the most aggressive developers in the town,” suggested that business interests should be openly acknowledged. “[Trevor] doesn’t have to advertise it, but he shouldn’t hide it,” Chamay said.

Coalition member Brian Rooney, a Marblehead mortgage broker, emphasized he has never discussed business opportunities related to MBTA zoning with other coalition members.

“It would be hypocritical for me not to support housing in my own town when I finance projects and housing in other communities,” Rooney said.

Resident Susan Whitehill, who supports the coalition, urged the group to embrace transparency to quiet critics.

“I recommend shutting them up by listing all the members,” she said.

Rooney said some members have identified themselves on social media and in news reports. And, he pointed out that 3A opponents sent out an anonymous mailer in the spring.

The Marblehead Housing Coalition members are: Trevor Moore, Rooney, Bill Keaney, Christine Cousineau, Rick Smyers, Angus McGuilken, Ruth Sigler Law and Nancy Bennett.

What’s at stake?

The pledge drive comes after May’s narrow Town Meeting vote rejecting proposed zoning changes. Town Planner Alex Eitler warned about the financial stakes of non-compliance, explaining how Marblehead risks losing access to state grants critical for infrastructure maintenance and improvements.

A recent $210,502 coastal resilience grant for waterfront infrastructure protection could be jeopardized, along with $265,000 in planning grants already awarded to the town.

“We would essentially be losing out on opportunities to

access these grants,” Eitler said.

“The maintenance and upkeep of critical infrastructure, whether that’s bridges, roads, or even just the walkways going to schools and sea walls, would be put into a gray zone.”

During a lengthy questionand-answer session, residents pressed officials about the financial impact of noncompliance. When asked to specify the potential losses, Eitler said the total was difficult to quantify but pointed to infrastructure projects like the Village Street Bridge repair, estimated at $3 million.

“If we have to borrow money as a town, we’ve done some calculations, and the interest could be $1.7 million over 30 years, and that’s just one bridge,” Eitler said.

Residents also raised concerns about whether compliance could be restored if the town votes yes after the December deadline.

“Do we know that if we are noncompliant by the end of the year, but then vote for it in the May town meeting, does that put us

back on an okay trajectory with the state?” asked Mimi Hollister.

Eitler responded that while it depends on specific grant deadlines, the state’s primary goal is increasing housing stock rather than punishing towns. “They are taking into account communities such as Marblehead potentially being non-compliant in the new year, but also potentially being compliant when they have their town meeting,” he said.

Short-term rental concerns

The growing number of shortterm rentals emerged as a key concern at the meeting. Several residents noted that Airbnb listings in Marblehead had increased from 100 in 2021 to 231 in 2024, potentially limiting housing availability for longterm residents.

“My daughter’s a nurse. She can’t afford to live here. Why can’t we restrict the number of Airbnbs and say, ‘I’m sorry, we’ve had enough?’” one resident asked, suggesting the town

encourage long-term rentals instead.

Coalition member William Keaney, a 48-year resident, emphasized how housing limitations affect multiple generations. “Since 1970, children under five living in Marblehead have dropped by 50%. The school population has been declining for decades. The population of young adults 22 to 34 has dropped by half since 1970.”

Rick Smyers, a 22-year resident who serves on the town’s Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, addressed concerns about development impact on traffic. He argued that allowing more housing near workplaces could actually reduce traffic by enabling local workers to live closer to their jobs.

“People who work in Marblehead, people who are teachers, who work at the stores and local businesses, they can’t afford to live here because they can’t afford that million-dollar home,” Smyers said. “So they live somewhere else, far away, and they commute a long distance into Marblehead and back.”

Broughton Road public housing

Terri Tauro, vice chair of the Marblehead Housing Authority, updated attendees on plans to redevelop Broughton Road with affordable housing. The project would include renovating existing units and adding 35 new units, all maintained as affordable housing through a 99-year lease agreement. Those new 35 units would count toward 3A multifamily housing requirements.

Excerpts from the Marblehead police log Oct. 7-22. Consistent with state law, Marblehead Police have adopted a policy of not providing media outlets reports related to incidents involving domestic violence, juveniles and matters that remain under investigation.

Oct. 7

1:21 p.m. — Officer Robert Picariello responded to CVS on Atlantic Avenue regarding suspicious activity. Two separate individuals entered the store at different times inquiring about an employee. The store manager reviewed security footage and

filed a report. Picariello advised store staff to contact police if the individuals return.

Oct. 10

2:27 p.m. — Officer Charles Sweeney responded to Beacon Street for a property damage report at a social club. Security footage revealed a silver Toyota RAV4 struck a wall while leaving the parking lot. The operator, described as an elderly female, had been attending a blood drive at the location. Investigation is ongoing to identify the vehicle owner through donor records.

3:36 p.m. — Officer Andrew DiMare met with a resident

in the police station lobby regarding concerns about potential identity theft.

After investigation, DiMare determined no crime had occurred but provided literature on identity protection.

6:26 p.m. — Officer Nicholas Michaud responded to a neighbor dispute on Arthur Avenue. One resident reported concerning statements made by a neighbor. Michaud advised the reporting party on harassment prevention orders and recommended documenting any future incidents.

Oct. 11 11:11 a.m. — Officer Robert

Picariello investigated a stolen moped report on High Street. The white 2020 Kymco moped was last seen within the past week. Investigation revealed the moped was still registered to the previous owner. Case remains open pending contact with the registered owner.

12:12 p.m. — Officer Adam Mastrangelo responded to a neighbor dispute on Arthur Avenue involving landscaping materials.

Both parties were advised to avoid contact with each other.

Oct. 12

10:28 a.m. — Officer Dean Peralta took a report at the police station regarding an

alleged online scam. The victim reported being deceived by individuals claiming to be tech support, resulting in a significant financial loss through cryptocurrency. Case remains under investigation.

11:22 a.m. — Sgt. Sean Brady investigated an alleged road rage incident at Lafayette Street and Pleasant Street. A witness reported observing an operator exit their vehicle and make threatening statements to another driver. Brady conducted follow-up at the suspect’s residence, where the individual denied the allegations.

Breed: Abyssinian guinea pig

Size: Small

Age: Adult

Sex: Male

Rosario was found in a box on the side of a busy street with two other guinea pigs. Luckily for them, a police officer found them and got them the help they needed.

Rosario was on the thin side when he first came into the Marblehead Animal Shelter, but he has gained weight and is now ready for adoption. Volunteers at the shelter say Rosario loves all the fresh produce and yummy hay he is

given and gets so excited when you approach his cage.

“He is a happy little guy,” they say.

Rosario is up to date with routine shots, house trained and spayed. If you are interested in Rosario, fill out an adoption application at marblehead-animal-shelter.org, and you will be contacted.

Located at 44 Village St., the Marblehead Animal Shelter is open: » Sunday,

p.m. (adoptions). Tuesday, 6-8 p.m. Friday,

COURTESY PHOTO

Rosario has gained weight since arriving at the Marblehead Animal Shelter and is ready for

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Marblehead resident William Keaney, second from left, serves on a panel during the Marblehead Housing Coalition’s public forum at Abbot Public Library on Monday, Oct. 28.

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Hayley Comeau finished first among women at the Rotary’s 5K, which raised $28,000 for students’ mental health.

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Headlight

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community

Freshman elections

B Lorenz, Freshman

During the school year, students of Marblehead High School are given the chance to run for class officers. There are four positions you can choose to vote for: secretary, treasurer, vice president, and president. The freshmen elected Quinn Maguire as secretary, Jack Buckley as treasurer, Lucy Molinari as vice president, and Laurel Kearney as president.

I asked some of the students who ran but did not win about their experiences in the elections.

First, I asked Hailey Singer, who ran for president, what it was like running in the election. Her response was: “Running was very stressful but it was also fulfilling to know I tried.”

Why did you enter the election? “I entered the election to try to make a difference in our school.”

What did you enjoy most about entering the election? “The process of the election was not fun. I did it more for the greater good of others.”

What was the hardest part? “The hardest part was getting up in front of everyone and saying my speech.”

Next, I interviewed Izzy Johnson, who ran for secretary. I asked Izzy the same questions. What was it like running in the election? “It was very stressful, not in a way of school stress.”

Why did you enter the election? “For me personally it was to get out of my comfort zone and do something I would never have done before.”

What did you enjoy most about entering the election? “I enjoyed making plans that I would have done if I won. I had lots of ideas that I wanted to do, but sadly I didn’t win. I also wanted my ideas to come to life if I did win.”

What was the hardest part?

“The hardest part for me was actually getting the votes because I’m not very popular. It was also hard because everyone just voted for their friends because they are closer to them. It was weird. You definitely have to be okay with people coming up to you and asking about why you ran and other questions like that… But overall for me, it really helped me get over my fear of speaking to people. You also have to be okay with people talking about you.”

Lastly, I interviewed Maya Berman, who ran for vice president. Once again she was asked the same questions. What was it like running in the election? “It was a good experience. Everyone was friendly - if not a little competitive, but it overall taught me a lot.

Why did you enter the election? “I decided to run for vice president because I wanted to be a part of making a change at the school, and to give me a bit of experience in running a group for later in school or after college.

What did you most enjoy most about entering the election?

“I enjoyed hearing everyone’s reasons for running in the showcase, and it was interesting to listen to people’s ideas about the future of the school!”

Should volunteer hours be

necessary for graduation?

On September 23rd, freshman students at Marblehead High School had their Day of Service, which gave students the opportunity to earn volunteer hours by working with teachers at the Brown School and Veterans Middle School, by picking up trash at Devereux beach, washing fire trucks at the local fire department, and doing various other jobs that help strengthen our community.

The purpose of this service day is not only for helping the community, but also to give students a head start for earning volunteer hours. For high school students to graduate, they had to earn a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service. However, things have changed. Volunteer hours are now not a necessity for high school graduates.

How could this take a

toll on the Marblehead community? Now that students are uninspired to work towards the number of hours required, they might not help with things that require volunteering. Many jobs don’t require volunteer hours either, which would leave no reason for students to help out in the community – especially those who aren’t thinking about their life post-graduation. Additionally, some might say that if the student isn’t passionate about the work, then why make them do it? The likelihood of a ninth grader wanting to spend their time working for no compensation is incredibly minimal. If they don’t need it to graduate and it has no other benefits for themselves, they most likely won’t want to do it at all.

There are still benefits to this change, though. Some students that have already gotten jobs and do multiple extracurriculars

Headlight Staff 2024-2025

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

might not be able to fit volunteering into their schedule, which might become problematic when they aren’t able to graduate for not making time to provide their service to the town. It could be argued that the Day of Service could help by giving students fewer hours to work towards.

As a freshman myself, I think that volunteer hours should be necessary for graduation.

Four years of school is enough to earn only 40 hours, no matter how busy someone's schedule is. It has far more positive impacts than negative for the community, and they could help students learn skills that might be helpful for the rest of their high school career, maybe even beyond that. If students don’t learn how to contribute to the community now, will they ever do it on their own?

MHS teacher spotlight: Mr. Dure

Mr. Dure is a new Spanish teacher here at Marblehead High School. He teaches three CP1 classes, along with two Spanish 4 classes. He is not from Marblehead. In fact, he was born 1,645 miles away, in Haiti, which is located in the Caribbean, sharing the island Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. There are four languages that Mr. Dure speaks fluently: Haitian Creole, and French, which are official languages in Haiti. He later learned English and Spanish, which he uses to teach at Marblehead High School. When he was growing up, his father wanted him to be a doctor. But after seeing blood in a hospital, Mr. Dure decided that was not where he wanted to spend his days. He says he did not choose teaching, but instead, “life decided for me.”

His teachers in Haiti were his inspiration, but he did not want to be them. While they were strict and frequently failed students, Mr. Dure wanted to be fun and get kids interested in the language. He tries his best to be there for his students and help them learn the material to the best of their abilities. Keeping students interested and engaged during class is a hard task, especially with teens’ short attention spans. This is where Mr. Dure’s lighthearted demeanor helps. Though kids at MHS have not had him as a teacher for long, he has fulfilled his personal goal here, and his students look forward to their Spanish class with a teacher who tells stories and cracks jokes. He may be fun, but that does not inhibit his teaching style. Students say he goes at a pace where they learn the material and understand what they are studying. This enables them to recall that information on command.

Aiming to get a PhD in French, with the requirement of fluency in two other languages, he learned both Spanish and English. Mr. Dure loves languages and learning about their culture and history. He spent one and a half years studying to get his Master’s at the Illinois Program in Paris, and spent seven months at Middlebury College in Spain. Studying abroad was an “eye-opener” for him. Studying far away allowed him to meet people from across the globe, all with different stories and cultures. Mr. Dure was able to learn about new cultures and meet friends he would not have been exposed to if he had stayed in Haiti. Reading about other cultures compared to hearing about them from people who live within them are two different experiences.

Mr. Dure has a deep interest in sports as well. Though he doesn’t play any more, he was a soccer player while growing up. He stopped because of his age, but he continues to exhibit a passion for the sport and has coached school soccer teams, including at the Brooks School in Andover and the Bush School in Seattle. After working at Beverly High School for the last three years, Mr. Dure’s wife found him his new position at Marblehead High School. He was offered two jobs, one here and one closer to his home. He ended up choosing Marblehead because of the advanced and varying classes. Although he drives more than an hour to school every day, Mr. Dure thinks that it is all worth it. He says that teaching does not feel like a job to him; he loves being able to share his knowledge with his students. He truly brings a liveliness and excitement for learning to Marblehead High School, so it is safe to say we at MHS are lucky to have Mr. Dure as one of our Spanish teachers!

Benji Boyd ASSISTANT EDITORS: Grey Collins, Kathleen Hanson, Georgia Marshall FACULTY ADVISOR: Thomas Higgins

REPORTERS: Nathaniel Carper-Young, Anna Baughman, Anya Kane, Evan Eisen, Niko King, William Pelliciotti, Peter Sullivan, Nasira Warab, Grace Wolverton, Madalyn Gelb, Teagan Freedman, Samuel Jendrysik, Nicholas Jones, Arabella Pelekoudas

Nassa Warab, Freshman

Teagan Freedman, Sophomore

Marblehead’s best bets

Current Events spotlights exciting happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email Current editor Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org. Leigh Blander

Rock the Arts

Thursday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m.

The Marblehead High School Friends of the Performing Arts will host their annual Rock the Arts gala at the King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper St. The celebration is the biggest fundraiser for performing arts at MHS each year, and student performers rely on the donations from guests to fund transportation to venues, theater productions, field trips, senior scholarships and more. The band Code Blue will perform live. There will be hors d’oeuvres, raffles and a silent auction. $75. More info at tickettailor.com/ events/marbleheadfriendsoftheperformingarts.

Taste of the Town

riday, Nov. 8, 6-9 p.m.

“Taste of the Town: Eat Local, Drink Local” is a food-and-spirit tasting hosted by Marblehead Chamber of Commerce. In addition to food from local restaurants and an auction, the event will highlight local breweries and spirit distillers on the North Shore. Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Corinthian Yacht Club. More info at marbleheadchamber.org.

Live concert to benefit veterans

Saturday, Nov. 9, 7-11 p.m.

Erin Ash Sullivan & Sam Robbins

Friday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m.

Get ready for a cool autumn night with two New England natives, Erin Ash Sullivan and Sam Robbins, sharing their music, stories and connections. Enjoy these two musicians at Me & Thee Music, 28 Mugford St. Tickets are $25 and $10 for students. meandthee.org

Come see ‘The Claw’

Nov. 8-10

The VFW Post 2005 at 321 West Shore Drive is hosting a concert with the band Downtown Rhythm, playing classic rock, funk and R&B covers. The event benefits the New England Center and Home for Veterans. People are asked to bring items including: pillows, laundry bags, twin bedding, blankets, shower shoes, bras, jeans, belts, sneakers and deodorant. The show is free with donations accepted.

APPETIZERS

RoastedButternut Squash Soup Mini Crab CakeswithJalapeno Mayo • ShrimpCocktail • Mushroom Arancini

SIDES

Creamy Pearl Onions • Classic Mashed Potatoes • HaricotVerts with RedOnion&Roasted Garlic Oil • RoastedButternut Squash with Sage &Honey

ACCOMPANIMENTS

Porcini&Leek Stuffing • Cornbread&SausageStuffing • PorciniMushroomGravy • Turkey Gravy • Cranberry RelishwithOrange& GrandMarnier • StuffedDelicataSquashwithQuinoa,Corn,&Spinach • Chef Kate’s Lentil Loaf • Four CheesePasta Al Forno

BREADAND ROLLS

Iggy’s French Rolls • Iggy’s Cranberry Pecan Rolls • Iggy’s Brioche Rolls • Iggy’s Baguette • FreshBaked Cornbread

Pie Pumpkin BreadPudding Valrhona Chocolate Mousse Cake

When an out-of-order claw game suddenly turns back on, all of the toys are ecstatic! Well… all of the toys except for Dot, a terrified stuffed cow. Dot’s desperate to hold onto her home and her best friend, Aiden. Can Dot conquer her fear of the unknown with some help from the Flair Bears, Mighty Mutant Power Turtles, Beanie Elders and the allknowing Mystical 8-ball? Don’t miss “The Claw” at Marblehead Little Theatre, 12 School St. For times and tickets, visit mltlive.org.

Heroes for Hope Cornhole Tournament

Saturday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Join Marblehead Police and Fire departments for a friendly and fun day of cornhole in a 64-team tournament, single-elimination style. All proceeds will support Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s mission to create life-changing wishes for local children with critical illnesses. The registration fee is $50 per person or $100 per team. Prizes will be awarded to the top team. Seaside Park. Register at e.givesmart.com/events/EQ5/.